California Missions and Presidios

ISBN: 0896584925

Author: Leffingwell, Randy

Condition: Used

The missions and presidios of California are among the states oldest structures and are the most visited historical monuments. These notable buildings are an integral part of Californias history. The states recorded history essentially began with the Spanish missions along the ambitious chain of 21 missions on El Camino Reál (The Royal Highway) and the men who founded them.California Missions and Presidios is a gorgeous book that presents the history of these intriguing sanctuaries of peace and beauty. The eye-popping photography of Alastair Worden and Randy Leffingwell captures their unique character, while Leffingwells accessible text brings to life the overall history of Californias conquest by the Spanish; the construction and operation of the missions, presidios, ranchos, and adobes; and the background of the mission architecture and style.Seemingly unchanged, these missions and presidios have survived the centuries remarkably well-still welcoming visitors as a refuge of serenity and splendor while providing a glimpse into the lives of the spirited pioneers who built these structures and lived and worked there.